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User reviews and community discussions portray the Musical Fidelity X-A2 (also referred to as XA-2 or A2) as a well-regarded budget integrated amplifier from around 1997, praised for its musical sound and value, though with some reliability concerns, especially for used units.
### Sound Quality
Users consistently highlight the X-A2's engaging, natural sound profile, often described as smooth, detailed, and precise across frequencies. Highs are smooth and detailed without harshness, mids are great or natural with good separation, and lows are ample or effortless even at high volumes, delivering high sound pressure levels without strain. It maintains precision at loud levels and pairs well with various speakers in low-budget setups.
### Build Quality
Opinions on construction are mixed: some note its cool aesthetics and solid 10kg weight, but internals reveal basic components like Teapo capacitors and minimal parts, suggesting it's not premium-built. It's compact (440 x 95 x 340mm) with specs like 25W per channel into 8Ω, 10Hz-20kHz frequency response, 0.005% distortion, and strong signal-to-noise ratios (70dB MM, 103dB line).
### Reliability
Reliability draws criticism, particularly for older or used models. One user reported a failure after apparent tampering, poor initial repair, and no support from Musical Fidelity despite outreach—though a second repair restored performance. No widespread failure reports, but service access is a noted weakness for non-authorized purchases.
### Strengths
- Musical performance: True "musical performer" fitting most audiophiles, with power, clarity, low distortion, and versatile inputs (MM/line).
- Value: Affordable, high-fidelity sound; "a belter of an amp" driving speakers effectively.
- Reputation: 4.7/5 average rating; users like it "a lot" and recommend grabbing it.
### Weaknesses
- Power limits: Only 25W, may strain with demanding speakers or high-power needs.
- Support issues: Poor manufacturer response for used units.
- Basic internals: Lower-end capacitors may affect long-term durability.
Overall reputation: Positive among enthusiasts for its fun, detailed sound in budget systems, earning high marks (4.7/5) as a "grab" despite age-related risks—ideal for musicality over power or modern features. Note: Some discussions blend with similar models like A1/A2, but X-A2 feedback aligns closely.
English (US)